PILOT MOUNTAIN — With many area humanitarian groups struggling to keep up with the demands caused by a depressed economy, their budgets are tighter than ever before. In response, the Pilot Mountain Civic Club has put out its annual call to make sure that these agencies are in line to receive the help they need.

“We are soliciting requests from organizations in need of financial assistance,” club President Spencer Oberle explained. “We’re looking for the people who take care of our citizens in all types of ways. And it may not be a Pilot Mountain-based group. But we will require that they are actively helping our local residents.”

Areas specifically mentioned included groups helping residents deal with physical needs such as hunger or warmth as well as those helping with medical issues or other hardships. Fire and rescue groups are also supported as are youth or senior-focused groups.

Funds are raised by the club throughout the year, primarily through the sponsorship of three major fundraisers. While best known for its long-time sponsorship of the annual Mayfest celebration, the club also hosts a summer golf tournament and Pilotfest. Distribution of funds takes place each December at an open banquet attended by club members, town officials, and representatives from the organizations which are to receive funding. Last year, the group awarded an estimated $20,000 to some 23 groups and projects.

Applications are now being accepted for the current year. Deadline for submitting applications is Oct. 1. Applications are available online at www.townofpilotmountain.com, using the “documents” link.

According to Oberle, those who received funding last year have been mailed applications and will need to submit a current request in order to receive additional funding.

“We encourage them to send in their applications,” Oberle noted. “We should have some money to give out this year, especially with a good Pilotfest. We want to see applications come in.

“We’ve already been able to do some things this year,” Oberle continued. “We have our Surry Community College Scholarships and we’ve already been able to help the Cardinal Foundation, East Surry Little League, the new East Surry Academic and Arts Team and our Special Olympics program.”

Oberle said this will be the third year of requiring applications for the club and the process has worked well. He noted that follow-up contacts are also made, with organization representatives often being invited to speak at club meetings.

“This helps us stay in touch with our community,” Oberle noted, “and allows us to see how the money we raise is benefitting our residents.”